Definition

1. Noun:
   • The red child: A classical literary term referring to a newborn infant, whose skin is red. It is used metaphorically to represent the common people or populace, viewed as innocent and needing care.
   • The common people / the masses: In ancient Confucian and royal discourse, this term symbolizes the citizens, whom the ruler should protect and nurture as one would a helpless newborn.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Vị vua anh minh luôn coi trọng phúc lợi của xích tử. (The enlightened king always prioritized the welfare of the common people.)
  • Trong văn chương cổ, "xích tử" tượng trưng cho nhân dân chất phác. (In classical literature, "xích tử" symbolizes the simple, honest populace.)

Advanced Usage

• This term is almost exclusively found in classical or formal literary, historical, or political texts. It conveys a paternalistic view of governance, where the ruler has a duty to the people.
• It is often used in set phrases or proverbs related to kingship and benevolent rule.

Variants and Related Words

• Bách tính (n): Another classical term for the common people or the hundred family names.
• Thần dân (n): Subjects (of a king or ruler).
• Dân chúng (n): The masses, the public (more modern term).

Synonyms

• Common people: Ordinary citizens.
• Populace: The people living in a particular country or area.
• Masses: A large body of common people.

Related Idioms and Classical References

• "Xích tử chi tâm": The heart/mind of a newborn child; often used to describe pure, innocent intentions.
• The term originates from the Chinese classical idiom "chì zǐ zhī xīn" (赤子之心), meaning a pure, childlike heart. The Vietnamese usage focuses more on the people as the "red child" to be protected.